About Chinese Medicine
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Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) is one of the great herbal traditions of Asia and is considered by many as the most superior method of healing amongst the various treatment modalities of TCM. Alongside modern Western medicine, it is practiced extensively in many hospitals throughout China where it is used to treat a wide range of conditions.
What does treatment with CHM involve? The Chinese herbal pharmacopoeia includes several hundred commonly used medicinal that includes the barks, stems, roots, leaves and flowers of medicinal plants, as well as some non-plant based material. Treatment involves the use of a combination of herbs (referred to as a formula or prescription) which are customized to address the presenting clinical pattern of a person. Chinese herbal medicine may be administered in a variety of forms. Traditionally, dried herbs are decocted into a herbal tea. More modern forms of administration include tinctures, tablets, capsules, granules, concentrated powders and liquid extracts for internal use. External applications are also used and include creams, ointments, washes and compresses. What should I expect from a typical CHM consultation? During your first consultation a full assessment of your current symptoms, medical history and general health will be carried out. Observation of the tongue and pulse play a major role in determining a diagnosis in Chinese medicine, so it is common for us to look at your tongue and take your pulses taken on both wrists. Based on the nature of your condition, you may be prescribed an over the counter CHM preparation or a customized formula made specific for you. How safe are Chinese herbs? CHM has a long safety track record and may be taken by people of all ages and constitutions. We also ensure that all herbal products prescribed to you are source from reputable suppliers that employ appropriate quality control measures which ensure all products are free from heavy metals, pesticides and other contaminants/adulterants. Can my herbs interfere with other prescription/over the counter medication I am taking? CHM is generally safe to take along side prescription drugs and over the counter medicines, so long as you inform us about any medication you are taking. Unless otherwise advised always take your herbs at least two hours away from any other medication. |